this is john hiatt’s first new recording in four years, his longest pause since the seventies. now 66, much of the material is reflective in nature. whether acknowledging his own shortcomings as a person, reconsidering old romances, or staring at his impending demise, the songs here are well constructed and honest. recorded in nashville last summer (three of the songs were recorded the day of the eclipse, hence the title), the arrangements are sparse but appropriate. kenneth blevins provides the drums, much like he has since ‘slow turning’ in 1987. and then we add some organ and a blend of acoustic and electric guitars for a nice folk/rock blend (check out the j.j.cale style leads in ‘over the hill’ below).

fans of his work will recognize his typical songwriting patterns and wry humor. this is probably my favorite album of his since ‘crossing muddy waters’. he seems to know that time is running out (and his voice is not what it once was), but he still has something to say and has the integrity to do it the right way.

he is going out on a solo tour starting saturday in new orleans. he has eighty songs prepared and will do about 25 a night he says, taking requests. should be a good show if he comes to your area.